Chasm: The Rift

Chasm: The Rift, released in 1997 by Action Forms, is a fast-paced first-person shooter set in a grim, time-twisting future. As a Special Forces commando, players are tasked with stopping the mysterious Time Strikers — grotesque mutant invaders who assault humanity across different historical eras. From modern military bases to ancient Egyptian tombs, each location offers a new and eerie battleground.

The gameplay emphasizes intense gunfights, maze-like level design, and brutal enemy encounters. One of the game’s standout features is its dismemberment system, allowing players to blow off limbs and disable foes in combat — a rare and shocking mechanic for its time. A varied arsenal, environmental traps, and key-based progression evoke classic ’90s shooter design while maintaining a distinct, gritty atmosphere.

While overshadowed by genre giants like Quake and Duke Nukem 3D, Chasm: The Rift earned a cult following for its dark tone, challenging gameplay, and memorable enemy designs. Today, it remains a noteworthy hidden gem from the late DOS era — a relic of the golden age of shooters that stands apart with its unique style and brutal combat flair.